Convenient and simple control of the Icom computer transceiver
He will probably ask who has not tried this thing: “Why control a transceiver with a computer?”
However, the benefits of control are indisputable. In addition to entering the frequency from the numeric keypad and tuning to DX spots from the cluster, the programs offer a number of additional functions. These are different ways of scanning, memory management, frequency database, messages of a virtually unlimited number of memories, spectroskop, satellite tracking (elimination of Doppler phenomenon), transverter frequency display and many, much more….
How about that?
We will need two things: interface between computer and transceiver and software. Wiring diagrams for such interfaces are on the Internet, you will also find them in the software documentation.
The IC-706 requires a CI-V interface. Of the many connections, I was interested in the OK2WY connection, which is very simple. All parts are soldered in style “sparrow's nest” into a plastic box with dimensions 30 x 45 x 18 millimeters. In the SMD version, it would probably also fit in the connector cover.
Even a beginner can make an interface in a few tens of minutes. If the components are faultless and you did not make a mistake in the wiring, the interface will work on the first power up. No need to worry about port damage, it has current protection (also against short circuit).
I use Ham Radio Deluxe as the software, and I can only express my satisfaction with him. Once launched, it must be entered, where and which transceiver is connected. DTR must also be activated for this interface (power supply). If you have the transmitter set to transfer data from the manufacturer, the software detects the speed during autodetection 1200 baudov. At this speed, tuning is choppy and responses to commands are unreasonably long.
Study the manual to figure it out, that both the address and the baud rate can be changed in the initialization menu. IC-706 is accessed by long pressing DISP and simultaneously ON (it starts with the transceiver off). You may not need to change the address, but baud rate (item no.22, CI-V BAUD) Yes. Set it to 19200.
If Ham Radio Deluxe now asks you to connect when it starts, nastavte port, transceiver type and baud rate 19200 baudov. The responses at this speed are already excellent, tuning is natural.
The description itself, what Ham Radio Deluxe offers would suffice for several articles. But what will I write, try it for yourself. You can find the program at .: YOUR .: